I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in New Jersey. I have over 20 years of experience in treating clients with depression, anxiety, addiction, and life stressors. My vast experience in the field has awarded me the ability to work with clients with complex competing issues. I always meet clients where they are at, and challenge and support them in their journey toward recovery. I am compassionate, empathetic, and driven to provide the client with the best tools and support to reach their best potential.
In our first session, I will be a great listener so you can explain where you are at and what you wish to work on first. I will then tailor your client focused treatment plan based on your needs, and where you wish to start in this healing journey. I will introduce supporting worksheets and other educational supports as we move forward in your treatment.
I think my greatest strength as a provider is my ability to listen attentively and with empathy so we can build trust in our working relationship. I also believe that I have an innate skill to assist the client in identifying strengths that they never recognized or acknowledged to achieve goals. I am client centered, organized, and passionate about the work that I do.
I have over 20 years of experience in CBT therapy which challenges negative thought patterns to improve overall mental health. Through CBT, I empower clients to gain insight into their thought processes, manage emotions more effectively, and lead more fulfilling lives. Through my structured sessions and assignments, clients will learn practical strategies to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and achieve lasting positive change.
I have over 20 years of experience in DBT therapy which assists clients in navigating their emotional deregulation and interpersonal difficulties. Through a dialectical approach that balances acceptance and change, I will assist clients in learning mindfulness skills to increase awareness of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in the present moment. I also assist clients in learning distress tolerance and techniques to manage crisis more effectively. Ultimately, clients will cultivate new coping skills, and build a new life with manageable and achievable goals.
I have and have began to practice EMDR with my clients. EMDR (eye movement desensitation) will help you safety recall negative/traumatic memories via guided eye movements or tapping. This process helps the brain reprocess the memories in a way that reduces emotional charge, over time the distress over the incident decreases, allowing for healthy cognition to form in the brain. EMDR is an excellent modality for most mental health disorders, however is very effective with trauma. This modality requires preparation and a thorough treatment plan to include specific goals/targets.
I have several of years experience in practicing grief therapy as it relates to significant loss and life changes. I can assist you in processing grief, and help you understand each grief stage as well as your thoughts and feelings in the moment. Grief is very difficult to navigate and understand and it can be processed and discussed in a healthy environment.